Latest News in Bellingham, WA

Northwest Sports Update Mariners bolster bullpen, Seahawks extend Schneider, Lynden youth baseball team makes nationals and more

The Seattle Mariners strengthened their bullpen by trading pitching prospect Jeter Martinez to the Pittsburgh Pirates for reliever Caleb Ferguson ahead of the trade deadline. Ferguson, who has a 3.74 ERA this season, will become a free agent at the end of the year. The Mariners also promoted first baseman Tyler Locklear from Triple-A Tacoma and are set to play a crucial game against the Athletics tonight.

New details emerge in shooting involving Lummi Police officer, suspect charged in Whatcom County courthouse

Jesus Penuelas-Agramon, 23, faces multiple charges including attempted murder and firearm offenses after allegedly shooting a Lummi Police officer seven times. He is also wanted in Colorado for a probation violation and will remain in Whatcom County jail without bail. The incident occurred early Monday morning, prompting a court hearing and subsequent press conference.

State Dept. of Health announces Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning reports in Skagit Bay

The Washington State Department of Health closed recreational shellfish harvesting in Skagit Bay due to high levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxins. The ban affects all molluscan shellfish, while crab meat remains safe for consumption if properly prepared. Harvesters are urged to consult the state’s shellfish closure map before collecting shellfish.

Department of Ecology lifts swimming advisory at Bay View State Park, others remain in place

The Washington State Department of Ecology lifted a swimming advisory at Bay View State Park in Skagit County due to improved water quality. However, advisories remain in effect at Wildcat Cove and Little Squalicum Park, where high levels of fecal bacteria were detected. Health officials warn that swimming in contaminated waters poses risks, particularly to vulnerable populations.

Family of critically injured Lummi police officer opens fund for community donations

A donation fund has been established to aid the family of a Lummi Nation police officer critically injured in a recent shooting. The community can contribute through a fundraising dinner at Syros Restaurant on Monday, with all proceeds benefiting the officer's family. The officer, who remains hospitalized in stable condition, was shot multiple times while responding to a suspect incident.

Whatcom County takes over severe weather shelter operations, calls for local support unanswered

Whatcom County Health and Community Services will operate a severe weather shelter in Bellingham, reducing bed capacity from 80 to 60. The department plans to increase temporary staff and enhance transportation and food donations while seeking organizations to run an additional shelter outside the city. A lease for the shelter location is expected to be authorized in September.

Expect construction crews at Bloedel Donovan Park in the near future

Bellingham Parks and Recreation will install a new inspection gate at Bloedel Donovan Park's boat launch to prevent aquatic invasive species in Lake Whatcom. The boat launch will remain open during the construction, which includes the removal of non-native plants.

Tsunami advisory issued for coastal Washington, West Coast after magnitude 8.7 earthquake near Russia

A tsunami advisory has been issued for coastal Washington following an 8.7-magnitude earthquake off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. The first waves are expected to reach Washington around 11:30 p.m., with maximum heights forecasted at 1.4 feet or less. Residents are urged to stay away from beaches and waterways.

Lisa Janicki retires from Skagit County Commissioner position

Skagit County Commissioner Lisa Janicki announced her retirement, effective at the end of the year. Elected in 2014, she played a key role in initiatives to combat homelessness and mental health care development in the region. Skagit County Democrats will nominate three candidates for her replacement.

Man arrested following death of Kent man in Ferndale

A 57-year-old man, Lester Payton, was arrested following the death of 61-year-old Anthony Sperry, who succumbed to injuries from an assault in Ferndale. The altercation occurred when Payton, hired by Sperry, bumped him with a vehicle and subsequently attacked him. An autopsy confirmed that Sperry's death was a direct result of the assault.